Ink delivery system adapter

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/975,295, filed Oct. 10, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,619,789, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/034,874, filed Mar. 4, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,130,695, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/785,580, filed Jan. 21, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,812,156. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/871,566, filed Jun. 4, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,074,042. Also, this application is related to commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/034,875, filed Mar. 4, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,227,638, and to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/230,950, filed Aug. 8, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,318,850.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates in general to ink-jet printing systems and, more particularly, to ink-jet printing systems which makes use of an ink supply cartridge that includes a memory device for exchanging information with the ink-jet printing system.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

One type of prior art ink-jet printing system or printing system has a printhead mounted to a carriage which is moved back and forth over print media, such as paper. As the printhead passes over appropriate locations on the print media, a control system activates the printhead to eject ink drops onto the print media and form desired images and characters. To work properly, such printing systems must have a reliable supply of ink for the printhead.

One category of ink-jet printing system uses an ink supply that is mounted to and moves with the carriage. In some types, the ink supply is replaceable separately from the printhead. In others, the printhead and ink supply together form an integral unit that is replaced as a unit once the ink in the ink supply is depleted.

Another category of printing system, referred to as an “off-axis” printing system, uses ink supplies which are not located on the carriage. One type replenishes the printhead intermittently. The printhead will travel to a stationary reservoir periodically for replenishment. Parent application Ser. No. 09/034,874 to this application entitled “Ink Delivery System Adapter”, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,130,695, describes another printing system wherein the printhead is fluidically coupled to a replaceable ink supply or container via a conduit such as a flexible tube. This allows the printhead to be continuously replenished during a printing operation.

In a parent application to this application, a replaceable off-axis ink supply is described which has a memory device mounted to the housing. When installed into the printing system, an electrical connection between the printing system and the memory device is established. This electrical connection allows for the exchange of information between the printing system electronics and the memory. The memory device stores information which is utilized by the printing system electronics to ensure high print quality. This information is provided to the printing system electronics automatically when the cartridge is mounted to the printing system. The exchange of information assures compatibility of the cartridge with the printing system.

The stored information further prevents the use of the ink supply after it is depleted of ink. Operating a printing system when the reservoir has been depleted of ink can destroy the printhead. The memory devices concerned with this application are updated with data concerning the amount of ink left in the reservoir as it is being used. When a new cartridge is installed, the printing system will read information from the memory device indicative of the reservoir volume. During usage, the printing system estimates ink usage and updates the memory device to indicate how much ink is left in the cartridge. When the ink is substantially depleted, this type of memory device can store data indicative of an out-of-ink condition. When substantially depleted of ink, these cartridges are typically discarded and a new cartridge along with a new memory device is installed.

Previously used ink containers have fixed volumes of deliverable ink that have been provided for printing systems based generally on ink usage rate requirements of a particular user. However, printing systems users have a wide variety of ink usage rates which may change over time. For ink-jet printing system users who require relatively high ink usage rates, ink containers having these volumes require a relatively high ink container replacement rate. This can be especially disruptive for print jobs which are left to run overnight. Extended continuous use of printing systems causes ink containers to run out of ink during a print job. If the printing system does not shut down during an “ink out” condition, the printhead or the printing system itself may be permanently damaged.

For printing system users who require lower volumes of ink, a different set of problems is encountered if the ink volume is too large. The ink may surpass its shelf life prior to being utilized. Larger ink containers are more expensive and bulkier than smaller cartridges and may be cost prohibitive to small volume users. Thus, a need exists for providing adaptive ink supplies for the ink cartridge described in the parent application, so that ink containers having a variety of ink volumes may be utilized. The adaptive ink supplies should be still able to provide to the printing system the benefits of the memory device of the original equipment ink cartridge.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

Multiple embodiments of an adaptive ink delivery system for an existing ink-jet printing system are provided. The adaptive ink delivery systems include ink reservoirs of varying configuration and size that are capable of accommodating a variety of ink use rates. Each adaptive ink delivery system also has an electrical connector and an information storage device which are suitable for the various ink use rates. The information storage device may be an emulation circuit that provides enabling information to the printing system regardless of the actual condition of the ink reservoir. The adaptive ink delivery systems allow one to locate the ink reservoir and/or the information storage device remotely from the printing system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a schematic drawing of a printing system having an original equipment ink delivery system.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is an isometric view of a printing system utilizing the printing system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is an end isometric view of an ink container of the printing system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a side view of the ink container of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a partial enlarged proximal end view of the ink container of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a sectional side view of the ink container of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> taken along the line <b>6</b>—<b>6</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a partial enlarged isometric view of a portion of the printing system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, showing the ink container receptacles.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is an enlarged partial isometric and cut away view of the printing system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> taken along the line <b>8</b>—<b>8</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is an enlarged isometric view of an interface portion of the printing system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10A</figref> is a partial sectional view of the interface portion of the printing system which is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> taken along the line <b>10</b>A—<b>10</b>A of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> and showing also a partial sectional view of the ink container installed.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10B</figref> is an enlarged view of the printing system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10A</figref>, taken along the line <b>10</b>B—<b>10</b>B of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10A</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11A</figref> is a partially exploded isometric view of the ink container of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A</figref>, <b>10</b>B, as shown from the distal end.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11B</figref> is a partially exploded isometric view of the ink container of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A</figref>, <b>10</b>B, as shown from the proximal end.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a further exploded isometric view of the ink container of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A</figref>, <b>10</b>B.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> is an enlarged side view showing the inductive fluid level sensors for the ink container of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A</figref>, <b>10</b>B, shown detached from the ink container.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is a sectional view of the ink container of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A</figref>, <b>10</b>B, with the proximal cap removed.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> is a side view of a first embodiment of an adaptive ink delivery system constructed in accordance with this invention.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> is a side view of another embodiment of an adaptive ink delivery system constructed in accordance with this invention

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> is a side view of another embodiment of an adaptive ink delivery system constructed in accordance with this invention.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref> is a side view of another embodiment of an adaptive ink delivery system constructed in accordance with this invention.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref> is a side view of another embodiment of an adaptive ink delivery system constructed in accordance with this invention.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> is a side view of another embodiment of an adaptive ink delivery system constructed in accordance with this invention.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> is an enlarged proximal end view of an ink container showing another embodiment of the electrical contacts.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref> is an enlarged sectional view of the ink container of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> shown in alignment with the electrical interconnect portion.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Although the present invention comprises adapters and methods for altering the volume of ink and the corresponding informational requirements supplied to a printing system, the invention may be more clearly understood with a thorough discussion of the printing system and original equipment ink container.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, a printing system <b>10</b> having an ink container <b>12</b>, a printhead <b>14</b> and a source of pressurized gas, such as a compressor <b>16</b>, is shown. Compressor <b>16</b> is connected to ink container <b>12</b> with a conduit <b>18</b>. A marking fluid <b>19</b> such as ink is provided by ink container <b>12</b> to printhead <b>14</b> by a conduit <b>20</b>. Ink container <b>12</b> includes a fluid reservoir <b>22</b> for containing ink <b>19</b>, an outer shell <b>24</b>, and a chassis <b>26</b>. In the preferred embodiment, chassis <b>26</b> includes air inlet <b>28</b> configured for connection to conduit <b>18</b> for pressurizing the outer shell <b>24</b> with air. A fluid outlet <b>30</b> is also included in the chassis <b>26</b>. The fluid outlet <b>30</b> is configured for connection to the conduit <b>20</b> for providing a connection between the fluid reservoir <b>22</b> and fluid conduit <b>20</b>.

In the preferred embodiment, the fluid reservoir <b>22</b> is formed from a flexible material such that pressurization of outer shell <b>24</b> produces a pressurized flow of ink from the fluid reservoir <b>22</b> through the conduit <b>20</b> to the printhead <b>14</b>. The use of a pressurized source of ink in the fluid reservoir <b>22</b> allows for a relatively high fluid flow rate from the fluid reservoir <b>22</b> to the printhead <b>14</b>. The use of high flow rates or high rates of ink delivery to the printhead make it possible for high throughput printing by the printing system <b>10</b>.

The ink container <b>12</b> also includes a plurality of electrical contacts, as will be discussed in more detail subsequently. The electrical contacts provide electrical connection between the ink container <b>12</b> and printing system control electronics or controller <b>32</b>. The printing system control electronics <b>32</b> control various printing system <b>10</b> functions such as, but not limited to, printhead <b>14</b> activation to dispense ink and activate pump <b>16</b> to pressurize the ink container <b>12</b>. Ink container <b>12</b> includes an information storage device <b>34</b> and ink volume sensing circuitry <b>36</b>. In a preferred embodiment, ink volume sensing circuitry <b>36</b> includes two circuits <b>36</b> as will be described in more detail with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 12 and 13</figref>. The information storage device <b>34</b> provides information to the printing system control electronics <b>32</b> such as ink container <b>12</b> volume and ink characteristics. The ink volume sensing circuitry <b>36</b> provides signals relating to current ink volume in ink container <b>12</b> to the printing system control electronics <b>32</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> depicts one embodiment of printing system <b>10</b> shown in perspective. Printing system <b>10</b> includes a printing frame <b>38</b> constructed for containing several ink containers <b>12</b> simultaneously. The embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> has four similar ink containers <b>12</b>. In this embodiment, each ink container contains a different ink color so that four color printing is available including: cyan, yellow, magenta and black ink. Printing system frame <b>38</b> has a control panel <b>40</b> for controlling operation of printing system <b>10</b> and a media slot <b>42</b> from which paper is ejected.

Referring also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, as ink <b>19</b> in each ink container <b>12</b> is exhausted, container <b>12</b> is replaced with a new ink container <b>12</b> containing a new supply of ink. In addition, ink containers <b>12</b> may be removed from the printing system frame <b>38</b> for reasons other than an out of ink condition such as changing inks for an application requiring different ink properties or for use on different media. It is important that the replacement ink container <b>12</b> form reliable fluidic and electronic connections with the printing system frame <b>38</b> so that printing system <b>10</b> performs reliably.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 4</figref> depict an original equipment ink container <b>12</b> having an outer shell <b>24</b> which contains the fluid reservoir <b>22</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) for containing ink <b>19</b>. Outer shell <b>24</b> has a leading cap <b>50</b> secured on a leading end and a trailing cap <b>52</b> secured on a trailing end, relative to a direction of insertion for the ink container <b>12</b> into the printing system frame <b>38</b>. Leading cap <b>50</b> has an aperture <b>44</b> on its leading end through which air inlet <b>28</b> and fluid outlet <b>30</b> from reservoir <b>22</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) protrude. Reservoir chassis <b>26</b> has an end or base which abuts leading cap <b>50</b> that air inlet <b>28</b> and fluid outlet <b>30</b> protrude through aperture <b>44</b>. Aperture <b>44</b> is surrounded by a wall <b>45</b>, placing aperture <b>44</b> within a recess. Air inlet <b>28</b> and fluid outlet <b>30</b> are configured for connection to compressor <b>16</b> and printhead <b>14</b>, respectively, (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) once ink container <b>12</b> is properly inserted into the printing system frame <b>38</b>. Air inlet <b>28</b> and fluid outlet <b>30</b> will be discussed in more detail subsequently.

Leading cap <b>50</b> also has another aperture <b>46</b> which is located within the recess defined by a wall <b>45</b>. The base or end of chassis <b>26</b> is also exposed to aperture <b>46</b>. A plurality of flat electrical contact pads <b>54</b> are disposed on reservoir chassis <b>26</b> and positioned within aperture <b>46</b> for providing electrical connection between circuitry associated with the ink container <b>12</b> and printing system control electronics <b>32</b>. Contact pads <b>54</b> are rectangular and located in a straight row. Four of the contact pads <b>54</b> are electrically connected to information storage device <b>34</b> and four are electrically interconnected to ink volume sensing circuitry <b>36</b> as discussed with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. In a preferred embodiment, information storage device <b>34</b> is a semiconductor memory device and the ink volume sensing circuitry <b>36</b> comprises an inductive sensing device. Wall <b>45</b> helps protect information storage device <b>34</b> and contact pads <b>54</b> from mechanical damage. In addition, wall <b>45</b> helps minimize inadvertent finger contact with contact pads <b>54</b>. Contact pads <b>54</b> will be discussed in more detail with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

In a preferred embodiment, ink container <b>12</b> includes one or more keying and guiding features <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> disposed on opposite sides of leading cap <b>50</b> of container <b>12</b>. Keying and guiding features <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> protrude outward from sides of container <b>12</b> to work in conjunction with corresponding keying and guiding features on the printing system frame <b>38</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>) to assist in aligning and guiding the ink container <b>12</b> during insertion of the ink container <b>12</b> into the printing system frame <b>38</b>. Keying and guiding features <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> also provide a keying function to insure that ink containers <b>12</b> having proper ink parameters, such as proper color and ink type, are inserted into a given slot printing system frame <b>38</b>.

A latch feature <b>62</b> is provided on one side of trailing cap <b>52</b>. Latch feature <b>62</b> works in conjunction with corresponding latching portions on the printing system. portion to secure the ink container <b>12</b> within the printing system frame <b>38</b> so that interconnects such as pressurized air, fluidic and electrical are accomplished in a reliable manner. Latch feature <b>62</b> is a molded tang which extends downwardly relative to a gravitational frame of reference. Ink container <b>12</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is positioned for insertion into a printing system frame <b>38</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>) along the Z-axis of coordinate system <b>64</b>. In this orientation gravitational forces on the ink container <b>12</b> are along the Y-axis.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> depicts an enlarged view of electrical contact pads <b>54</b>. An upstanding guide member <b>72</b> is mounted to chassis <b>26</b> adjacent contact pads <b>54</b>. Electrical contact pads <b>54</b> include two pairs of contact pads <b>78</b>, each pair being electrically connected to one of the volume sensing circuits <b>36</b>, discussed with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. The four contact pads <b>80</b> spaced between each pair of pads <b>78</b> are electrically connected to the information storage device <b>34</b>. Each pair of volume sensing contact pads <b>78</b> is located on an outer side of the row of contact pads <b>54</b>. Contact pads <b>78</b> are part of a flexible circuit <b>82</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>) which is mounted to the chassis <b>26</b> by fasteners <b>84</b>. The four intermediate contacts <b>80</b> located between the pairs of volume sensing contacts <b>78</b> are metal conductive layers disposed on a nonconductive substrate <b>86</b> such as epoxy and fiberglass. Memory device <b>34</b> is also mounted on substrate <b>86</b> and is connected by conductive traces (not shown) formed in substrate <b>86</b>. Memory device <b>34</b> is shown encapsulated by a protective coating such as epoxy. A backside of substrate <b>86</b>, opposite contacts <b>80</b>, is bonded by adhesive or attached to the chassis <b>26</b> by fasteners <b>84</b>.

It can be seen from <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> that the guide member <b>72</b> extends along a Z-axis in coordinate system <b>64</b>. Guide member <b>72</b> has a pointed, tapered distal end. Guide member <b>72</b> provides an important guiding function to insure proper electrical connection is accomplished during the insertion of ink container <b>12</b> into the printing system frame <b>38</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> depicts one ink container <b>12</b> shown secured within an ink container receptacle or receiving slot <b>88</b> of receiving station <b>89</b> within the printing system frame <b>38</b>. Ink container indicia <b>90</b> may be positioned proximate each ink container receptacle <b>88</b>. The ink container indicia <b>90</b> may be a color swatch or text indicating ink color to assist the user in color matching for inserting the ink container <b>12</b> in the proper slot <b>88</b> within the ink container receiving station <b>89</b>. As discussed previously, the keying and guiding features <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 4</figref> prevent ink containers <b>12</b> from being installed in the wrong slot <b>88</b>. Installation of an ink container <b>12</b> in the wrong receptacle <b>88</b> can result in improper color mixing or the mixing of inks of different ink types each of which can result in poor print quality.

Each receiving slot <b>88</b> within the ink container receiving station <b>89</b> includes keying and guiding slots <b>92</b> and latching portions <b>94</b>. Keying and guiding slots <b>92</b> cooperate with the keying and guiding feature <b>60</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) to guide ink container <b>12</b> into the ink container receiving station <b>88</b>. The keying and guiding slot associated with the keying and guiding feature <b>58</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) on ink container <b>12</b> is not shown. Each latching portion <b>94</b> is configured for engaging the corresponding latch feature <b>62</b> on the ink container <b>12</b>. The geometries of keying and guiding slots <b>92</b> vary from one receptacle <b>88</b> to the other to assure that ink containers containing proper colors and ink compositions are only installed in the proper receiving receptacles.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> shows a single ink container receiving slot <b>88</b> within the ink container receiving station <b>89</b>. Slot <b>88</b> includes interconnect portions for interconnecting with the ink container <b>12</b>. In the preferred embodiment these interconnect portions include a fluid inlet <b>98</b>, and air outlet <b>96</b> and an electrical interconnect portion <b>100</b>. Each of the interconnects <b>96</b>, <b>98</b>, and <b>100</b> are positioned on a floating platform <b>102</b> which is biased by coil springs <b>101</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10A</figref>) along the Z-axis toward the installed ink container <b>12</b>. Fluid inlet <b>98</b> and air outlet <b>96</b> are configured for connection with the corresponding fluid outlet <b>30</b> and air inlet <b>28</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>), respectively on the ink container <b>12</b>. The electrical interconnect <b>100</b> is configured for engaging electrical contacts <b>54</b> on the ink container <b>12</b>.

It is the interaction between the keying and guiding features <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> associated with the ink container <b>12</b> and the corresponding keying and guiding slots <b>92</b> associated with the ink container receiving station <b>89</b> which guide the ink container <b>12</b> during the insertion such that proper interconnection is accomplished between the ink container <b>12</b> and the printing system frame <b>38</b>. In addition, sidewalls associated with each slot <b>88</b> in the ink container receiving station <b>89</b> engage outer surfaces of ink container <b>12</b> to assist in guiding and aligning ink container <b>12</b> during insertion into slot <b>88</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9 and 10A</figref> illustrates further details of the floating platform <b>102</b>. Platform <b>102</b> is spring biased by coil springs <b>101</b> in a direction opposite the direction of insertion of the ink container <b>12</b> into the ink container receiving slot <b>88</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10A</figref>). Platform <b>102</b> is biased towards mechanical restraints (not shown) which limit the motion of platform <b>102</b> in each of the X, Y, and Z-axes. Therefore, platform <b>102</b> has a limited degree of motion in each of the X, Y, and Z-axes of coordinate system <b>64</b>.

Electrical connector <b>100</b> is supported by and protrudes from platform <b>102</b>. Electrical connector <b>100</b> is generally rectangular, having two lateral sides <b>107</b>, upper and lower sides, and a distal end <b>105</b>. A plurality of resilient, spring-biased electrical contacts <b>104</b> protrude from end <b>105</b>. Electrical contacts <b>104</b> are thin wire-like members which engage corresponding electrical contacts <b>54</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) associated with ink container <b>12</b> to electrically connect an electronic portion of ink container <b>12</b> with the printing system control electronics <b>32</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>). Electrical connector <b>100</b> has a guide slot <b>106</b> on its upper side. Guide slot <b>106</b> has opposed converging walls which cooperate to engage guide member <b>72</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 10B</figref>). Guide member <b>72</b> engages guide slot <b>106</b> to properly align contacts <b>104</b> with contact pads <b>54</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10B</figref> shows contact pads <b>54</b> properly aligned with electrical contacts <b>104</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9 and 10A</figref>, fluid inlet <b>98</b> and air outlet <b>96</b> protrude from floating platform <b>102</b>. Fluid inlet <b>98</b> includes an ink supply sleeve <b>110</b> surrounding a hollow needle <b>108</b>. Needle <b>108</b> has a port near its distal end. A collar <b>111</b> sealingly and slidingly engages needle <b>108</b>. A spring <b>113</b> urges collar <b>111</b> toward the distal end, blocking the port. Air outlet <b>96</b> includes an air supply sleeve <b>114</b> that surrounds a hollow needle <b>112</b>.

Referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10A</figref>, fluid outlet <b>30</b> is an outwardly extending cylindrical member having a septum <b>122</b> on its distal end. Septum <b>122</b> has a slit for receiving needle <b>108</b>. In a preferred embodiment, a check valve comprising a ball <b>124</b> and spring <b>126</b> are located in fluid outlet <b>30</b> to prevent outflow of ink until needle <b>108</b> is inserted. Ball <b>124</b> seats against septum <b>122</b> and is pushed away from septum <b>122</b> by needle <b>108</b>. Air inlet <b>28</b> is also a cylindrical member having a septum <b>128</b> with a slit.

When ink container <b>12</b> is releasably inserted into receiving slot <b>88</b>, keying and guiding features <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> provide coarse alignment between the ink container and the receiving slot <b>88</b>, such that the distal end of fluid outlet <b>30</b> can properly engage the distal end of ink supply sleeve <b>110</b> and such that the distal end of air inlet <b>28</b> can properly engage the distal end of air supply sleeve <b>114</b>. Engagement forces between the distal end of fluid outlet <b>30</b> and the ink supply sleeve <b>110</b> and between the distal end of air inlet <b>28</b> and the air supply sleeve <b>114</b> generate a force that causes the floating platform <b>102</b> to move into alignment with respect to ink container <b>12</b> such that needle <b>108</b> can be received by and hence form a fluid connection with fluid outlet <b>30</b>. This alignment of floating platform <b>102</b> also allows needle <b>112</b> to be received by and form an air connection with air inlet <b>28</b>.

When fluid outlet <b>30</b> properly engages fluid inlet <b>98</b>, the distal end of fluid outlet <b>30</b> slides collar <b>111</b> from a position wherein it seals the port on hollow needle <b>108</b> to a position wherein the port on hollow needle <b>108</b> is opened. At the same time, the distal end of fluid outlet <b>30</b> receives the hollow needle <b>108</b> providing fluid communication between the hollow needle <b>108</b> and fluid outlet <b>30</b>. It is important that fluid outlet <b>30</b> is sized properly with the distal end having a proper diameter such that it can be received in ink supply sleeve <b>110</b> and the fluid outlet having sufficient length such that it will properly depress collar <b>111</b> and receive the port on the hollow needle to allow fluid flow from fluid outlet <b>30</b> to hollow needle <b>108</b>.

The fluidic and air connections described above provide an intermediate accuracy of alignment between connector <b>100</b> and the plurality of contacts <b>54</b> associated with ink container <b>12</b>. This intermediate accuracy is adequate for electrical connection along the y-axis depicted by axes <b>64</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>. However, this coarse alignment is not accurate enough along the x-axis. Electrical connector <b>100</b> is mounted to floating platform <b>102</b> such that it has a degree of movement along the x-direction. A fine alignment along the x-direction is then provided by at least one guiding member associated with ink container <b>12</b> that engages the connector <b>100</b>. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one guiding member is upstanding member <b>72</b> that engages opposed converging walls of electrical connector <b>100</b>.

As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11A</figref>, <b>11</b>B and <b>14</b>, shell <b>24</b> is a generally rectangular member with a cylindrical neck <b>130</b> on its leading end. Chassis <b>26</b> is a circular disk or plug that inserts and seals in neck <b>130</b> with the leading side of chassis <b>26</b> flush with the rim of neck <b>130</b>. Reservoir <b>22</b> is a collapsible reservoir such as a collapsible bag that fits within shell <b>24</b>. An opening in reservoir <b>22</b> is sealingly joined to chassis <b>26</b>. Shell <b>24</b> is airtight, creating a pressure chamber <b>132</b> in the space surrounding reservoir <b>22</b>. Air inlet <b>30</b> leads to pressure chamber <b>132</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, rigid stiffener plates <b>134</b> are attached to opposite outer sides of reservoir <b>22</b>. The two inductive ink volume sensor coils <b>36</b> are formed on opposite legs of flexible circuit <b>82</b>. Each of the coils <b>36</b> has two leads <b>138</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>) connected to one of the pairs of sensor contacts <b>78</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>). One of the coils <b>36</b> is located on one side of reservoir <b>22</b> while the other is on the opposite side. When connected to printing system <b>10</b>, printing system electronics provide a time varying signal to one of the coils <b>36</b>. This induces a voltage in the other coil <b>36</b> whose magnitude varies as the separation distance between coils <b>36</b> varies. As ink is used, the opposing side wall portions of reservoir <b>22</b> collapse together, changing the electromagnetic coupling or mutual inductance of the coil pair. This change in coupling is sensed by controller <b>32</b>, which infers an ink level as a result. Additionally, controller <b>32</b> also makes a continuity check when ink container <b>12</b> is installed by determining if electrical continuity exists between the two contact pads <b>78</b> leading to one of the coils <b>36</b>.

Each ink container <b>12</b> has unique ink container-related aspects that are represented in the form of data provided by information storage device <b>34</b>. This data is provided from ink container <b>12</b> to printing system <b>10</b> via memory device <b>34</b> automatically without requiring the user to reconfigure printing system <b>10</b> for the particular ink container <b>12</b> installed. Memory device <b>34</b> has a protected section, a write-once section, and a multiple write/erase section. When the cartridge <b>12</b> is first installed in printing system <b>10</b>, controller <b>32</b> reads ink container information such as the manufacturer identity, part identification, date code of ink supply, system coefficients, service mode and ink supply size. Printing system <b>10</b> energizes one of coils <b>36</b> and reads an initial receiving coil voltage from the other (receiving) coil <b>36</b>. This initial receiving coil voltage from receiving coil <b>36</b> is indicative of the full state of ink container <b>12</b>. The printing system control electronics then record a parameter onto the protected portion of memory device <b>34</b> that is indicative of the initial receiving coil voltage. The printing system control electronics then initiate a write protect feature to assure that the information in the protected portion of memory stays the same.

The write once section is a portion of memory which can be written to by controller <b>32</b> only one time. The multiple write/erase section can be written to and erased repeatedly. Both of these sections store information concerning current ink quantity. As will be explained below, the coarse bit information is stored in the write once section and the fine bit data is stored in the multiple write/erase section.

Upon insertion of ink container <b>12</b> into printing system <b>10</b>, controller <b>32</b> reads information from memory device <b>34</b> for controlling various printing functions. For example, controller <b>32</b> utilizes information from memory device <b>34</b> to compute an estimate of remaining ink. If the ink remaining is less than a low ink threshold volume, a message is provided to the user indicating such. Further, when a substantial portion of the ink below the threshold volume is consumed, controller <b>32</b> can disable printing system <b>10</b> to prevent operation of printhead <b>14</b> without a supply of ink. Operating printhead <b>14</b> without ink can result in reduction of printhead reliability or catastrophic failure of printhead <b>14</b> In operation, controller <b>32</b> reads initial volume information from memory device <b>34</b> associated with ink container <b>12</b>. As ink is used during printing, the ink level is monitored by controller <b>32</b>, and memory device <b>34</b> is updated to contain information relating to remaining ink in ink container <b>12</b>. Controller <b>32</b> thereafter monitors the level of deliverable ink in ink container <b>12</b> via memory device <b>34</b>. In a preferred embodiment, data is transferred between printing system <b>10</b> and memory device <b>34</b> in serial fashion using a single data line relative to ground.

In a preferred embodiment, the volume information includes the following: (1) initial supply size data in a write protected portion of memory, (2) coarse ink level data stored in write once portion of memory and (3) fine ink level data stored in a write/erase portion of memory. The initial supply size data is indicative of the amount of deliverable ink initially present in ink container <b>12</b>.

The coarse ink level data includes a number of write once bits that each correspond to some fraction of the deliverable ink initially present in ink container <b>12</b>. In a first preferred embodiment, eight coarse ink level bits each correspond to one-eighth of the deliverable ink initially in ink container <b>12</b>. In a second preferred embodiment, to be used in the discussion that follows, seven coarse ink level bits each correspond to one-eighth of the deliverable ink initially present in ink container <b>12</b> and one coarse ink level bit corresponds to an out-of-ink condition. However, more or less coarse bits can be used, depending on the accuracy desired for a coarse ink level counter.

The fine ink level data is indicative of a fine bit binary number that is proportional to a fraction of one-eighth of the volume of the deliverable ink initially present in ink container <b>12</b>. Thus, the entire range of the fine bit binary number is equivalent to one coarse ink level bit as will be explained in more detail below.

Printing system <b>10</b> reads the initial supply size data and calculates the amount or volume of deliverable ink initially present in ink container <b>12</b>. The drop volume ejected by the printhead <b>14</b> is determined by printing system <b>10</b> by reading parameters and/or performing calculations. Using the initial volume of deliverable ink in ink container <b>12</b> and the estimated drop volume of printhead <b>14</b>, the printing system <b>10</b> calculates the fraction of the initial deliverable ink volume that each drop represents. This enables the printing system <b>10</b> to monitor the fraction of the initial volume of deliverable ink remaining in ink container <b>12</b>.

While printing, printing system <b>10</b> maintains a drop count equal to the number of ink drops that have been ejected by printhead <b>14</b>. After printing system <b>10</b> has printed a small amount, typically one page, it converts the drop count to a number of increments or decrements of the fine bit binary number. This conversion utilizes the fact that the entire range of the fine bit binary number corresponds to one eighth of the initial volume of deliverable ink in ink container <b>12</b>. Each time the fine bit binary number is fully decremented or incremented, the printing system <b>10</b> writes to one of the coarse ink level bits to “latch down” the bit.

Printing system <b>10</b> periodically queries the coarse and fine ink level bits to determine the fraction of the initial deliverable ink that is remaining in ink container <b>12</b>. Printing system <b>10</b> can then provide a “gas gauge” or other indication to a user of printing system <b>10</b> that is indicative of the ink level in ink container <b>12</b>. In a preferred embodiment, the printing system provides a “low ink warning” when the sixth coarse ink level bit is set. Also in a preferred embodiment, the printing system sets the eight (last) coarse ink level bit when the ink container <b>12</b> is substantially depleted of ink. This last coarse ink level bit is referred to as an “ink out” bit. Upon querying the coarse ink level bits, the printing system interprets a “latched down” ink out bit as an “ink out” condition for ink container <b>12</b>.

The volume is sensed by the inductive sensor coils <b>36</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>) only during a second phase of ink usage. During the first phase, both fine and coarse counters of are used. Ink drops are counted and recorded in the fine counter portion of memory device <b>34</b>. Each time the fine counter fully increments or decrements, another coarse counter bit will be set. During the second phase, only the ink level sensor coils <b>36</b> are used. The voltage output from the receiving coil <b>36</b> and is compared with the voltage level indicated by the parameter recorded on memory device <b>34</b>. A parameter indicative voltage output is recorded on the write/erase portion of memory. Each successive reading is compared with the previous reading as an error checking technique to allow detection of coil malfunction.

At the start of the third phase, the fine counter is reset and used in the same manner as during the first phase. When the final coarse counter bit is set, an “ink out” warning will be indicated to the printing system. The three-phase arrangement is provided because inductive sensor coils <b>36</b> are sufficiently accurate only in the second phase.

In printing system <b>10</b>, the transfer of data between printing system <b>10</b> and memory device <b>34</b> is in serial fashion on the single data line relative to ground. As explained above, while the ink in ink container <b>12</b> is being depleted, memory device <b>34</b> stores data that is indicative of its initial and current states. Printing system <b>10</b> updates memory device <b>34</b> to indicate the volume of ink remaining. When most or substantially all of the deliverable ink has been depleted, printing system <b>10</b> alters memory device <b>34</b> to allow ink container <b>12</b> to provide an “ink out” signal. Printing system <b>10</b> may respond by stopping printing with ink container <b>12</b>. At that point, the user will insert a new ink container <b>12</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, a first embodiment of an adaptive large volume ink supply <b>141</b> for replacing ink container <b>12</b> is shown. Ink supply <b>141</b> comprises a fluid conduit <b>143</b> such as a flexible tube that fluidically connects a fluid outlet <b>145</b> on one end of conduit <b>143</b> to an ink reservoir <b>146</b> on the other end of conduit <b>143</b>. Conduit <b>143</b> allows reservoir <b>146</b> to be remotely located from receptacle <b>88</b> while fluid outlet <b>145</b> is connected to printing system <b>10</b>. Locating reservoir <b>146</b> remotely from receptacle <b>88</b> allows reservoir <b>146</b> to be sized larger than the space constraints of receptacle <b>88</b> would allow. Fluid outlet <b>145</b> functions similarly to fluid outlet <b>30</b> discussed with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>. In a preferred embodiment, fluid outlet <b>145</b> contains a septum <b>144</b> and is sized to connect to fluid inlet <b>98</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10B</figref>). Hollow needle <b>108</b> pierces septum <b>144</b>. The opposite end of conduit <b>143</b> is secured to ink reservoir <b>146</b>. In the embodiment shown, air pressure from air outlet <b>96</b> is not utilized to force ink from reservoir <b>146</b>.

Ink supply <b>141</b> also comprises an electrical ink supply circuit <b>147</b>. Ink supply circuit <b>147</b> comprises a flexible electrical cable <b>149</b> with an adapter connector <b>151</b> on one end. Adapter connector <b>151</b> is provided for electrically connecting a signal source <b>155</b> to electrical connector <b>100</b> of printing system <b>10</b>. Adapter connector <b>151</b> is configured to closely receive at least two opposite sides of electrical interconnect <b>100</b> (see also <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>) to retain adapter connector <b>151</b>. Adapter connector <b>151</b> may have a guide member similar to guide member <b>72</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 6</figref>) which engages guide slot <b>106</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>).

Adapter connector <b>151</b> has a plurality of flat contact pads <b>153</b> arrayed in a row for engaging electrical contacts <b>104</b> of connector <b>100</b>. In a preferred embodiment, number and spacing of contact pads <b>153</b> are substantially the same as those described with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>. Even if inductive volume sensing is not employed, preferably at least one pair of contacts would be positioned similar to contacts <b>78</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> and electrically connected together to enable controller <b>32</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) to perform a continuity check.

Ink supply circuit <b>147</b> is connected to the source of electrical signals <b>155</b> for supplying enabling information to printing system <b>10</b>. A cable <b>149</b> enables electrical signal source <b>155</b> to be remote from receptacle <b>88</b> while adapter connector <b>151</b> is in engagement with contacts <b>104</b> of printing system <b>10</b>. Alternatively, signal source <b>155</b> may be connected to cable <b>149</b> with a pluggable connector (not shown).

Electrical signal source <b>155</b> may be a memory circuit substantially the same as memory circuit <b>34</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) of the first embodiment. Alternately, signal source <b>155</b> may be an emulation device, which is an electronic circuit that functions similar to memory device <b>34</b> but may have a substantially different structure. As an emulation device, signal source <b>155</b> may exchange substantially the same type of information with printing system <b>10</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) as memory device <b>34</b>. For example, as an emulation device, signal source <b>155</b> may provide information to controller <b>32</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) regarding the volume of ink, the type of ink and color when connector <b>151</b> is connected to electrical connector <b>100</b>. These signals may be interpreted by controller <b>32</b> to be indicative of the initial ink supply size, the coarse ink level and the fine ink level. Each time the signal indicative of the fine ink level reaches an extreme, the coarse ink level signal may be incremented in signal source <b>155</b> in response. Thus an emulation device as signal source <b>155</b> may function as a duplicate or near duplicate of memory device <b>34</b>. Alternatively, signal source <b>155</b> may be a signal-providing circuit that merely enables printing system <b>10</b> to operate whenever a new ink supply is provided but does not provide information concerning the volume of ink in reservoir <b>146</b> during usage.

In operation, ink supply <b>141</b> delivers ink similarly to ink container <b>12</b>. The large volume ink reservoir <b>146</b> is connected to fluid inlet <b>98</b> through conduit <b>143</b> and fluid outlet <b>145</b>. The seal of fluid outlet <b>145</b> is pierced by needle <b>108</b> of fluid inlet <b>98</b>. Signal source <b>155</b> is connected to system connector <b>100</b> through ink supply connector <b>151</b> and cable <b>149</b>. Ink is delivered from the ink reservoir while the remaining volume or other ink parameters are communicated to printing system <b>10</b> through ink supply circuit <b>147</b>. Conduit <b>143</b> and cable <b>149</b> allow reservoir <b>146</b> and signal source <b>155</b>, respectively, to be located remotely from printing system <b>10</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>, a second embodiment of an adaptive ink supply <b>161</b> for replacing ink container <b>12</b> is depicted. Ink supply <b>161</b> comprises a housing <b>163</b> with a leading end and a trailing end relative to a direction of installation of ink supply <b>161</b> into receptacle <b>88</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>). In this figure, only features that pertain to the invention are shown. Housing <b>163</b> is sized to be inserted at least partially into receptacle <b>88</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>). Housing <b>163</b> includes an opening <b>165</b> at the leading end for allowing the establishment of fluidic and air connections between ink supply <b>161</b> and the printing system <b>10</b>. In a preferred embodiment, housing <b>163</b> includes keying and aligning features <b>184</b> that function similarly to keying and aligning features <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> discussed with respect to ink container <b>12</b>.

A flexible ink reservoir <b>167</b> located within a rigid shell <b>169</b> is located inside housing <b>163</b>. An fluid outlet <b>171</b> extending from reservoir <b>167</b> engages fluid inlet <b>98</b> and receives hollow needle <b>108</b> therein in a manner similar to that of fluid outlet <b>30</b> discussed with respect to ink container <b>12</b>. In a preferred embodiment, a check valve <b>172</b> is located between reservoir <b>167</b> and fluid outlet <b>171</b> and is opened by needle <b>108</b> when the needle pierces a seal or septum <b>170</b> in fluid outlet <b>171</b>. Shell <b>169</b> has an air inlet <b>173</b> with a septum <b>174</b> which connects to air outlet <b>96</b> and is pierced by the hollow needle <b>112</b> therein for delivering pressurized air from air outlet <b>96</b> to the pressure chamber in shell <b>169</b> for pressurizing reservoir <b>167</b>. Fluid outlet <b>171</b> and air inlet <b>173</b> protrude through opening <b>165</b> in housing <b>163</b>. Preferably, a volume sensing circuit comprising inductive coils is also used similar to that shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>.

In a preferred embodiment, ink supply <b>161</b> includes a latching feature <b>182</b> that allows ink supply <b>161</b> to be secured in receptacle <b>88</b> to assure a reliable fluidic, air, and electrical connections between ink supply <b>161</b> and printing system <b>10</b>. In a preferred embodiment, the latching feature is an ink container latch feature <b>182</b> that is attached near the trailing end of shell <b>169</b> (as illustrated with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>) or housing <b>163</b>. Latch feature <b>182</b> is positioned on a lower side of ink supply <b>161</b> relative to a gravitational frame of reference. Latch feature <b>182</b> is positioned to engage latching portion <b>94</b> (discussed with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7 and 8</figref>) associated with receptacle <b>88</b>. Latch feature <b>182</b> forms an opening for receiving latching portion <b>94</b>.

Ink supply <b>161</b> also comprises an electrical ink supply circuit <b>175</b>. In an exemplary embodiment, ink supply circuit <b>175</b> comprises a flexible electrical cable <b>177</b> extending from electrical contact pads <b>179</b> mounted to a leading end of housing <b>163</b>. Although not shown, an alignment device similar to guide member <b>72</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 6</figref>) may protrude from the leading end of housing <b>163</b> to assure proper alignment between contacts pads <b>179</b> and contacts <b>104</b> that protrude from connector <b>100</b>. The alignment device generates movement of connector <b>100</b> in a direction perpendicular to the direction of insertion of ink supply <b>161</b> into printing system <b>10</b> in a manner similar to alignment feature <b>72</b> discussed with respect to ink container <b>12</b>. The trailing end of housing <b>163</b> is open for allowing shell <b>169</b> to slide in and out of housing <b>163</b>. Ink supply circuit <b>175</b> is provided for electrically coupling a source of signals <b>181</b> to electrical connector <b>100</b> of printing system <b>10</b>.

Ink supply circuitry <b>175</b> also has the signal source <b>181</b> which may be an electrical memory device or an emulator for supplying enabling information to printing system <b>10</b>. In an exemplary embodiment, signal source <b>181</b> is mounted to one side of housing <b>163</b>. Housing <b>163</b> preferably has keying and guiding features <b>184</b> for functioning in a similar manner to items <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>).

An alternative embodiment of the system described with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> would include a memory device <b>34</b> mounted to housing <b>163</b> in a manner similar to that discussed with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

In operation, ink supply <b>161</b> operates similarly to ink container <b>12</b>. The ink reservoir <b>167</b> is connected to fluid inlet <b>98</b> through fluid outlet <b>171</b>. Pressure vessel. <b>169</b> is connected to air outlet <b>96</b> through air inlet <b>173</b>. Signal source <b>181</b> is coupled to system connector <b>100</b> through ink supply connector contacts <b>179</b> and cable <b>177</b>. A continuity check will be made by controller <b>32</b> once housing <b>169</b> is installed. Preferably this is made through one pair of volume sensing contacts similar to contacts <b>78</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>) and at least one inductive coil similar to coil <b>36</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>. Ink is delivered to printing system <b>10</b> as pressurized air flows to shell <b>169</b> to apply pressure to reservoir <b>167</b>. The operating parameters of ink supply <b>161</b> may be communicated to printing system <b>10</b> as described above for ink supply <b>141</b>.

When ink supply <b>161</b> is releasably installed into receptacle <b>88</b> such that fluid, air, and electrical connections are established between ink supply <b>161</b> and printing system <b>10</b>, springs <b>101</b> are compressed. Springs <b>101</b> exert a force on ink supply <b>161</b> that is directed opposite to the direction of installation. If necessary, ink supply <b>161</b> includes at least one latching feature <b>184</b> to that exerts an opposing force directed along the direction of installation.

When ink is depleted from reservoir <b>167</b>, there are several options. Reservoir <b>167</b> and shell <b>169</b> may be removed from housing <b>163</b> and replaced by another reservoir and shell. Alternately, reservoir <b>167</b> may be refilled. In both cases, if signal source <b>181</b> provides volume information, it will need to be updated in some manner so as to not supply erroneous information to printing system controller <b>32</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>).

A third embodiment of an adaptive ink supply is depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref>. Ink supply <b>191</b> comprises a housing <b>193</b> having leading and trailing ends relative to a direction of instllation of housing <b>193</b> into receptacle <b>88</b>. Housing <b>193</b> includes a fluid outlet <b>195</b> secured to and protruding from the leading end. Housing <b>193</b> contains an ink conduit <b>197</b> that extends from outlet <b>195</b> to an ink reservoir (not shown). In an exemplary embodiment, the reservoir (not shown) is remote from housing <b>193</b> similar to reservoir <b>146</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>. This remote configuration allows the use of ink supplies that would not fit in receptacle <b>88</b>. Fluid outlet <b>195</b> extends laterally from housing <b>193</b> and engages fluid inlet <b>98</b> in a manner similar to the function of fluid outlet <b>30</b> discussed with respect to ink container <b>12</b>. Ink supply <b>191</b> has an electrical ink supply circuit <b>199</b> which may be similar to circuit <b>175</b> discussed with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>, having a plurality of contacts such as flat contact pads <b>200</b> on a leading end of housing <b>193</b> and connected to a signal source <b>202</b> by a plurality of conductive leads.

In a preferred embodiment, ink supply <b>191</b> includes a latching feature <b>196</b> that allows ink supply <b>191</b> to be secured in receptacle <b>88</b> to assure a reliable fluidic and electrical connections between ink supply <b>191</b> and printing system <b>10</b>. Latch feature <b>196</b> is positioned to engage latching portion <b>94</b> associated with receptacle <b>88</b>. Latch feature extends downwardly from a trailing end of housing <b>193</b> relative to a gravitational frame of reference. Other means of providing a latch feature are possible, including surfaces on housing <b>193</b> that provide a friction fit between housing <b>193</b> and the sides of receptacle <b>88</b>.

In a preferred embodiment, housing <b>193</b> also includes keying and aligning features <b>198</b> that are preferably similar to the keying and aligning features <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> discussed with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. When housing <b>193</b> is releasably inserted into receptacle <b>88</b>, the keying and aligning features <b>198</b> provide coarse alignment between housing <b>193</b> and receptacle <b>88</b>. This allows fluid outlet <b>195</b> to properly engage sleeve <b>110</b> associated with fluid inlet <b>98</b> to allow needle <b>108</b> to properly align to and be received by fluid outlet <b>195</b>. The fluidic connection between needle <b>108</b> and inlet fluid outlet <b>195</b> provides an intermediate level of alignment accuracy between connector <b>100</b> and pads <b>200</b>. An alignment member such as upstanding member <b>72</b> is then used to provide fine alignment between pads <b>200</b> and contacts <b>104</b>. This coarse, intermediate, and fine alignment scheme is similar to that discussed for ink container <b>12</b> with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A and 10B</figref>.

In operation, when housing <b>193</b> is inserted into a receptacle <b>88</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>), fluid outlet <b>195</b> connects to fluid inlet <b>98</b>. Signal source <b>202</b> in ink supply connector <b>199</b> is coupled to system connector <b>100</b> through contact pads <b>200</b>. In a preferred embodiment, an electrical continuity check is performed as described with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>. Ink is delivered to printing system <b>10</b> through fluid outlet <b>195</b>. Signal source <b>202</b> exchanges information with controller <b>32</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) as described above.

When ink supply <b>191</b> is releasably installed into receptacle <b>88</b> such that fluid and electrical connections are established between ink supply <b>191</b> and printing system <b>10</b>, springs <b>101</b> are compressed. Springs <b>101</b> exert a force on ink supply <b>191</b> that is directed opposite to the direction of installation. If necessary, ink supply <b>191</b> includes at least one latching feature <b>196</b> to overcome this force, as discussed earlier.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref> depicts a fourth embodiment of the invention. Ink supply <b>201</b> has an ink reservoir <b>203</b> with a fluid outlet <b>205</b> protruding from one end. Volume sensing circuitry such as coils <b>36</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>) can also be employed on reservoir <b>203</b>. An electrical ink supply circuit <b>207</b> is employed which maybe the similar to ink supply circuit <b>147</b> of ink supply <b>141</b> as described with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>. Ink supply circuit <b>207</b> has an electrical connector <b>204</b> which connects to a signal source <b>211</b>. In operation, ink is metered from reservoir <b>203</b> as signal source <b>211</b> electronically exchanges information with controller <b>32</b> of printing system <b>10</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>). Electrical continuity may be checked as described in connection with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>. Electrical signal source <b>211</b> may be similar to memory device <b>34</b> or it may be an emulator that is functionally equivalent to the memory device <b>34</b>.

A fifth embodiment of an adaptive ink delivery system is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref>. Ink supply <b>211</b> has an external housing <b>213</b> that contains an ink reservoir <b>215</b> that has an fluid outlet <b>216</b>. Housing <b>213</b> has an open trailing end for slidingly receiving reservoir <b>215</b>. An electrical ink supply circuit <b>217</b> is mounted to housing <b>213</b> and may be the same as ink supply circuit <b>199</b>, described above in connection with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref>. Ink supply circuit <b>217</b> has contact pads <b>218</b> mounted to a leading end of housing <b>213</b> and a signal source <b>219</b> mounted to the side of housing <b>213</b>. Ink supply <b>211</b> operates similarly to ink supply <b>201</b> as described with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref>.

An alternative embodiment of the system described with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref> would include a memory device <b>34</b> mounted to housing <b>213</b> in a manner similar to that discussed with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

When ink supply <b>211</b> is releasably installed into receptacle <b>88</b> such that fluid and electrical connections are established between ink supply <b>211</b> and printing system <b>10</b>, springs <b>101</b> are compressed. Springs <b>101</b> exert a force on ink supply <b>191</b> that is directed opposite to the direction of installation. If necessary, ink supply <b>211</b> includes at least one latching feature <b>220</b> to overcome this force, such as a latch feature located on the trailing end of housing <b>213</b>. In a preferred embodiment, ink supply <b>211</b> includes keying and aligning features <b>222</b> that function similarly to the keying and aligning features <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> discussed with respect to ink container <b>12</b>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> depicts an ink supply <b>224</b> that uses a rigid ink reservoir <b>226</b>. Reservoir <b>226</b> has a fluid outlet <b>228</b> that is configured similar to the fluid outlets previously described for fluidic connection to fluid inlet <b>98</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref>). An ink conduit <b>230</b> extends into reservoir <b>226</b> and terminates at the bottom with a filter <b>232</b>. Filter <b>232</b> is preferably of a type that will allow the passage of ink into ink tube <b>230</b>, but block air flow into tube <b>230</b>. An air inlet <b>234</b> is located next to fluid outlet <b>228</b> for reception into air outlet <b>96</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref>). Air inlet <b>234</b> is connected to an air tube <b>238</b> that extends into an upper side of reservoir <b>226</b>. A memory or emulator unit and electrical contact pads <b>242</b> are located on a leading edge of reservoir <b>226</b>. Contact pads <b>242</b> are positioned to engage printer electrical connector <b>100</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref>). A guide member (not shown) such as guide member <b>72</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>) will be employed.

In a preferred embodiment, ink supply <b>224</b> includes latch feature <b>244</b> for engaging latch portion <b>94</b> associated with printing system <b>10</b>. This latch feature would be similar to and function similarly to the latch feature <b>62</b> described with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3–10</figref>.

In a preferred embodiment, ink supply <b>224</b> includes keying and aligning features <b>246</b> that would be similar to and function similarly to the keying and aligning features <b>58</b> and <b>60</b> discussed with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3–10</figref>.

In use, reservoir <b>226</b> inserts into receiving slot <b>88</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>), with fluid outlet <b>228</b> engaging fluid inlet <b>98</b>, air inlet <b>234</b> engaging air outlet <b>96</b>, and contact pads <b>242</b> engaging electrical connector <b>100</b>. Air pressure is delivered from the printer compressor <b>16</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>). The air pressure is applied to the interior of reservoir <b>226</b> above ink <b>240</b>. This pressurizes ink <b>240</b> that then flows through filter <b>232</b> and conduit <b>230</b> to the printhead <b>14</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>).

Each of the foregoing electrical circuits <b>147</b>, <b>161</b>, <b>199</b>, <b>207</b> and <b>217</b> are preferably provided with an alignment or upstanding guide member similar to guide member <b>72</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 6</figref>). Guide member <b>72</b> is located adjacent to the contact pads of the respective electrical connectors for engaging one of the sides of support member <b>100</b> to align the contact pads with those of printing system <b>10</b>.

An alternate embodiment for guide member <b>72</b> of ink supply connectors <b>147</b>, <b>161</b>, <b>199</b>, <b>207</b> and <b>217</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 21 and 22</figref>. A connector <b>221</b> having a row of contact pads <b>223</b> for engaging contacts <b>104</b> of connector <b>100</b> is provided with a pair of spaced-apart alignment members <b>225</b>. One alignment member <b>225</b> is located adjacent each of the outermost contact pads <b>223</b>. Alignment members <b>225</b> have inclined surfaces <b>227</b> for engaging opposite lateral sides <b>107</b> of support member <b>100</b> for facilitating the joining of connectors <b>100</b> and <b>221</b>, and the proper alignment of contacts <b>223</b> and <b>104</b>.

The invention has several advantages. Some ink delivery systems described, such as those described with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 15 and 17</figref> allow for large ink reservoirs that cannot be accommodated in receiving slot <b>88</b>. This allows users who require high usage to replace the ink containers less frequently. On the other hand, systems such as those described with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 15</figref>, <b>16</b>, <b>18</b>, and <b>19</b>, allow the ink reservoir portion of the ink supply to be replaced separately from the electronic portion. If desired for lower use rates, a plurality of relatively small reservoir portions can be utilized for each electronic portion.

While the invention has been shown or described in only some of its forms, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that it is not so limited, but is susceptible to various changes without departing from the scope of the invention.